Family & Student Handbook

Regular attendance is essential to the success of a student’s school experience and is expected of every student.  Parents are asked to see that absences are held to a minimum and that they are due to legitimate, unavoidable circumstances.  Parents are also encouraged to keep check ins and check outs to a minimum.  While the school realizes that there will be times when extenuating or special circumstances require a student to miss school, frequent or long absences from class for nonessential reasons are not conducive to an appropriate attitude toward learning.

For the elementary school, parents will be notified when absences or tardies reach or exceed five.  When a student has been absent 10 days, a letter will be sent to parents.  Excessive absences will mandate a parent/administrative conference and required expectations will be established by the administration for continued enrollment.  Administration will determine if excessive absences prohibit the learner from advancing to the next grade level.  Tutoring may be required. 

A student must arrive by 11:30 a.m. or be present in school until 11:30 a.m. to be counted present for the day.  If a student checks in late, he/she must arrive by 11:30 a.m. in order to participate in any extracurricular/interscholastic events that day.  Students who check out of school must be in attendance until 11:30 a.m. in order to participate in any extracurricular/interscholastic events.  Students will not be eligible to exempt an exam if they have more than five unexcused absences in a class; three unexcused tardies to school is equivalent to one unexcused absence.

Recognizing that it is sometimes necessary for students to be absent, the following absences shall be considered “excused” absences:

1. Illness of student
2. Medical appointments which cannot be made after school
3. Funerals of immediate family members
4. School-sponsored activities
5. Absences with prior approval of the principal

Upon the PK – 5^th grade student’s return to school, the parent or guardian is required to send a written note for the student to give to their teacher.

Upon the 6^th – 12^th grade student’s return to school, the parent or guardian is required to send a written note for the student to present to the attendance secretary.  Written notes will not be accepted after the second day that the student returns and the absences will be counted as unexcused.  Attendance is taken during each class period. High school students missing a portion of the school day will be marked absent for the number of periods missed.  

Regular attendance is required to participate in school activities such as field trips, athletic events, music programs, etc.

Punctuality is crucial and expected.  Multiple unexcused tardies will result in an administrative conference and disciplinary measures.  Students, who are not in their classrooms by 8:00 a.m., will be considered tardy.  If a student is tardy to school, he/she must check in with the attendance secretary. The student needs to bring a written note from his or her parent at the day/time of tardy. No tardy notes will be accepted at a later date. Recording of all tardies is handled by the Attendance Secretary, and notes are filed to ensure accuracy.

The following tardy policy is in place for both excused and unexcused tardies to school each semester:

• 5 tardies will result in an email from the attendance secretary.
• 8 tardies will result in a phone call from the administration.
• 10 tardies will result in a student-parent conference.

Tardies that take place after the school day begins will be handled by the individual teachers.  Teacher policies will be enforced, and in the case of excessive tardies the teacher will refer the student to the appropriate administrator. 

The adult who checks a student in or out must sign on at the Ident-A-Kid station, stating the reason for the tardy or check-out.  Adults (other than the parent/legal guardian) who check a student out must be listed on the student’s current release form and must show valid, current picture identification.

In order to avoid constant interruptions during the last instructional period of the day, students, who need to check out in the afternoon, should check out at least 30 minutes prior to dismissal of school.  
Students are only allowed to check out for lunch under the following circumstances:

• Senior off-campus lunch days approved in advance by the administration
• A student’s parent(s) comes to the school and checks them out to take them personally. 

All pre-approved absences are recorded as excused absences.  If the student leaves town without getting a pre-approved absence form completed and on file, it is counted as an unexcused absence.   Juniors and seniors may take up to three pre-approved absences for college visits, which will not be counted as unexcused absences in terms of exemptions from exams.  Please complete the pre-approved absence form (on the school’s website) and return it at least five days in advance of absence. 

Due to the tremendous number of variables involved in maintaining perfect attendance, certificates for perfect attendance will no longer be awarded, but perfect attendance will continue to be recorded on Report Cards. 

The teacher will utilize the recovery procedures outlined in the teacher’s syllabus. All students are expected to submit make-up/missed assignments by using the following formula: Days absent plus one day. Example: If a student is absent four days, he/she will have 4 days plus 1 day (5 days) to submit the work or any assessments missed due to the absence.

Suspended students and students who have unexcused absences are expected to check with the teacher and turn in all work the day they return.  Late make-up work will be subject to the late penalty deduction

A pattern of low grades, poor work habits, poor conduct, excessive absenteeism or tardiness, or the parents’ failure to meet financial obligations can jeopardize a student’s continued enrollment.  Entrance into the next grade will be based on the classroom performance of the student, observations and recommendations of the teacher, appropriate testing, and principal approval.

 

Our goal is to maintain a secure, challenging, and nurturing school environment in which students develop a strong sense of integrity and respect for others. In order to promote this goal, students are expected to be honest, use appropriate language and have appropriate interactions with others. 

Another equally important goal is to help students mature and learn a sense of self-responsibility.  For this reason, students are held to a high standard of integrity and are expected to appropriately seek help and report problems when circumstances arise.  Students are encouraged to seek help and report problems on their own without parental involvement as much as possible.

The standards of student conduct are designed to provide students with guidance to help them meet the goals and expectations of Strong Rock Christian School. The list of rules and policies should be read carefully. Violations will result in serious consequences, up to and including suspension or dismissal from school.  Students may also be held responsible for any damage or harm that they cause to individuals and/or Strong Rock Christian School.

The policies and standards apply any time a student is enrolled in the school, including when a student is on campus, is participating in or attending a school-sponsored event on or off campus; is officially representing the school; is traveling on behalf of the school; and during school breaks, including summer break. 

In addition, the school regards any behavior prejudicial to the best interests of the school, whether at school or elsewhere, as sufficient grounds for a disciplinary response.

Consistent application of disciplinary policies is sought, although each situation is judged on its merits, and every effort will be made to ensure that decisions are not arbitrary.

The policies and rules outlined in this Handbook should not be read as an all-inclusive description of the school’s standards, which are based on honesty, respect, trust, and safety. Any behavior that constitutes a breach of these school values may be treated as a major school rule violation. Students are expected to comply with school standards and rules, and they are also encouraged to discuss with their fellow students, teachers or administration any issues or infractions of school standards and rules toward the purpose of caring for one another in a spirit of kindness and of what is best for each person in the school community.

Students and adults (teachers, administrators, staff members, parents, and visitors) are expected to interact with each other in a professional and respectful manner. 

If a student or the student’s parents become aware of any staff communications or actions toward one or more students that seems unusual, overly friendly, or otherwise inappropriate, such information should immediately be reported to the administrator of the division. 

Some examples of behaviors that should not occur and which should be reported include school employees:

• Calling students at home for a non-school matter;
• Touching students or their clothing in non-professional ways or inappropriate places, or touching a student with aggression or in frustration;
• Making comments that are too personal (about a student’s clothing, hair, personal habits, etc.)
• Sending e-mails, texts, or writing notes to students of a personal nature;
• Flirting or asking a student on a date;
• Visiting students to “hang out” in their hotel rooms when on field trips or sporting events or visiting the students at home when the students’ parents are not present;
• Asking students to sit on a teacher’s lap;
• Telling secrets or telling the student not to tell something that’s a secret;
• Swearing, making inappropriate sexual, racial/or ethnic comments;
• Inviting students to visit the adult’s personal social networking profile/account.
• Telling off-color or other inappropriate jokes; and
• Dating or engaging in consensual relationships with students.

Similarly, it is expected that parents will not take it upon themselves to address a situation with a student relating to a disagreement with the student or the student’s parents.  Loud, angry, or aggressive language or actions will not be tolerated.  Any such interaction should be reported under this policy.  

Students are expected to cooperate in investigations.  Students are expected to be honest, but honesty is not necessarily a mitigating factor and students’ own statements may be used against them.  Failure to cooperate with an investigation may be cause for disciplinary action.

If a student refuses to participate or cooperate at any stage of an investigation, or is unable to do so for whatever reason, including without limitation, pending criminal charges, the school reserves the right to take action, including proceeding without a statement from the student, or to require the student to withdraw from school. 

As Strong Rock Christian School Patriots, we value, honor, and respect our civil servants – police officers, fire fighters, EMT’s, as well as Veterans and those currently serving in all branches of the United States Armed Forces. As such, all Strong Rock faculty, staff, administration, students, and student athletes will follow the guidelines of the United States Flag Code, which establishes advisory rules for displaying and physically honoring the United States Flag, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the National Anthem.  Personal conduct expectations are as follows:

United States Flag Code

• When the United States flag is displayed, or the Pledge of Allegiance is spoken, or the National Anthem is performed:
  • individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note;
  • all other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, and men not in uniform, if applicable, should remove their head covering with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the hearts.
  • members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute in the manner provided for individuals in uniform; and
• When the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.

Failure to abide by this Code of Honor may result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion or termination.

“A Good Name Is To Be More Desired Than Great Riches.” Proverbs 22:1

The Honor Code at Strong Rock Christian School rests squarely on Biblical principles.  Moral uprightness must be diligently taught and nurtured in a Christian school committed to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.  The Honor Code requires that students act honorably in all phases of student life.  The Honor Code rests on the premise that lying, cheating, plagiarism and stealing constitute a breach of the spirit of honor and mutual trust and are not tolerable within the Strong Rock Christian School community.

The Honor Code at Strong Rock Christian School provides a valuable aid to student life, as it seeks to encourage students to develop as individuals by accepting responsibility for their own actions.  As Scripture says, “Each one of us shall give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12).  The Honor Code also provides tangible benefits.  In a school dedicated to learning, it is an obvious advantage for the students to know that their work will be accepted as their own and their word accepted as the truth.  The Honor Code expects individuals to think beyond themselves and to realize that any infraction threatens the privileges of the rest of the student body and undermines the trust upon which the system is built. 

Honor Code violations are lying, cheating, plagiarism, and stealing.

1. Lying is the intentional falsification or denial of fact, the intentional creation of a false impression, or the breaking of a pledge.
2. Cheating is the giving or receiving of unauthorized information in schoolwork.  It is also the representation of another’s work as one’s own. This unauthorized help may include, but is not limited to, the following: copying another student’s work and turning in the work of someone else as one’s own.
3. Direct plagiarism is a form of cheating.  It is defined as intentionally borrowing someone else’s words, ideas or facts or passing them off as one’s own.  Failure to credit the source of those words, ideas or facts properly constitutes an act of plagiarism.
4. Stealing is the taking of anything without the permission of the owner.

All students entering Strong Rock Christian School should realize that the Honor Code prescribes three major responsibilities.

1. An honor code assembly will be held at the beginning of each year to allow students to sign off on their commitment to follow Strong Rock’s honor code policy. 
2. The Honor Code requires that each student refuse to participate in lying, cheating, plagiarism or stealing.
3. The Honor Code urges each student to discourage one’s fellow students from violating this Honor Code.
4. The Honor Code urges that each student should counsel with and/or report any other student(s) who is/are guilty of these offenses.

Every student should, when aware of an infraction of the Honor Code, report the infraction to a teacher, principal, or assistant principal.

All teachers are required to report offenders of the Honor Code to the principal or assistant principal in writing.  They may request that action be taken, or for a first time offense, may report that action has been taken.

All students and teachers involved in Honor Code procedures are honor bound to maintain strictest confidentiality within both school and surrounding communities.

The privilege of attending Strong Rock Christian School automatically implies that every student will strive to maintain the highest standards of personal conduct.  Maintaining an orderly atmosphere is critical to the learning process. Teachers are expected to manage their classrooms with Christian love and firmness. 

Corporal punishment will not be administered on Strong Rock Christian School property by either parents or school staff members.  Routine discipline will be handled by the individual teacher in harmony with his or her own methods and abilities consistent with school policies.  These could include, but are not limited to, reprimands, missing a recess, time out, cleaning a room, teacher’s detention, lunch detention, writing a behavior analysis, office referrals, and suspensions.

A student who continually disobeys school and/or classroom rules and has been administered teacher discipline will be sent to the office.  Should his/her behavior not improve after being sent to the office, the student will be suspended from school for at least one day. 

Disciplinary matters, or incidents in violation of school rules and regulations, will be handled initially at the most immediate level possible. Violations will subject the student to disciplinary consequences.  The level of disciplinary response for any violation of school rules will depend on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to:

• Whether any person was harmed;
• Whether there was property damage or other loss of property;
• The level of any class or school disruption caused by the student's behavior;
• The number, if any, of prior infractions of school rules and regulations;
• The inappropriate use of technology;
• Whether the student has been previously disciplined;
• Whether there were illegal substances (for example, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, vapes, etc.);
• Whether the student had been earlier warned about the same or similar conduct;
• Whether there was a weapon or other dangerous item involved;
• Whether the conduct is of the kind also prohibited by criminal law; and/or
• Whether the student was honest and cooperative in connection with the investigation of the behavior.

All students may be expelled for serious first offenses; repeat infractions (even if not related); conduct resulting in harm, damage, or disruption to the educational environment; parent or family member causing disruption to the school or the school’s educational mission; non-payment of tuition or fees; not meeting academic requirements; or not meeting attendance requirements.  Any matter taken under consideration by the Administration directly or considered serious by Administration may be grounds for expulsion.

Students must follow the directives of their teacher at all times.  Attempting to run away from or refusing to go with the teacher is a serious offense and will be dealt with as such.

Strong Rock Christian School has a strict policy against rough play, scuffling, wrestling, or inappropriate touching. 

Students who are serving out-of-school suspension lose the privilege of being in school for the day, as well as extracurricular activities. 

A student’s conduct grade may be lowered accordingly upon his/her being assigned detention(s) and/or suspension(s).

Once a student is suspended for behavior, he/she will be placed on behavioral probation.  Behavioral probation will last for a minimum of four weeks from the date of suspension.  During behavioral probation, should the student behave in a way that warrants further disciplinary action, his/her status will be reviewed by the administration.

When a student is found to be insubordinate to the policies and/or personnel of Strong Rock Christian School and is out of harmony with the mission of the ministry and cause of Christ, administration will meet to consider the possibility of the student being withdrawn or expelled immediately.  The parent/legal guardian will be asked to have a conference with the principal, and the student may be expelled.

Student discipline applies to all Strong Rock Christian School events that are held on or off campus.

In addition, the school may report to the appropriate governmental authorities any actions that appear to violate law.

Teachers will use a variety of methods to encourage obedience and orderliness in the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms.  If students do not comply, they may forfeit some free time or lose a privilege.  If there is a recurring problem with obedience, the following steps will be taken:

• The teacher will make a phone call and/or have a conference with the parents.
• A conference will be set up with parents, teacher, and principal.
• Parents will be called to the school.
• Child will be sent home for the remainder of the day and/or suspended for the next day.

Students demonstrating severe or repeated inappropriate behaviors, as determined by the sole discretion of the Strong Rock Christian School, may be dismissed.

Behaviors of a serious nature include, but are not limited to the following:

• Biting
• Kicking, hitting, or aggressive pushing with intent to hurt someone (child or teacher)
• Total disrespect for the teacher—refusal to obey, very defiant, temper tantrums
• Leaving the authority of a teacher—includes refusal to leave an area or running away from the teacher

If an elementary student continually disobeys school and/or classroom rules, the teacher will call the parents and hold a teacher/student conference to determine a plan for improved behavior.  If the undesired behavior continues, the teacher will call the parents to set up a conference.  Goals and strategies for improved behavior will be set.

A student’s conduct grade may be lowered accordingly if undesired behaviors occur.

Students demonstrating severe or repeated inappropriate behaviors, as determined at the sole discretion of the Strong Rock Christian School, may be expelled.

Student discipline referrals are reported to the assistant principal or principal for offenses, including classroom disturbances, not being prepared for class, disobedience, display of a poor or disrespectful attitude, disturbance of other classrooms in the halls, horseplay, excessive tardiness between classes or tardies to school.  A student will be required to sign each office referral indicating his/her knowledge that a consequence has been given.

Strong Rock provides a safe environment for both student learning and development.  In order to achieve that environment, Strong Rock provides a series of consequences that are fair and consistent to meet the multiple infractions that may occur.  However, as set forth herein, the school may deviate from this progressive discipline policy when, at its sole discretion, it determines that a student’s conduct merits another level of discipline.

Level 1- Teacher Redirection

• Teacher/student conference; Parent phone call
• Teacher/Parent/Student conference
• Discipline referral to Administration

 

Level 2- Administrative Detention

• Assign detention/ parent contact

 

Level 3- In-School Suspension (ISS) Assigned by Administrator/Parent Contact

• For the period
• For the day

 

Level 4- Saturday School /Parent Contact

• Cost: $25.00 to SRCS
• Dressed in school uniform
• 8:00-11:00

 

Level 5- OSS

• Admin / Parent /Student conference on the day of suspension
• Admin Student Conference on the return date from suspension.
• Student place on Behavioral Probation (no exceptions)

 

Level 6 Expulsion/Withdrawal (Due process)

• Leadership meeting to formulate decision
• Notify Parent of Decision

 

Note - a student's actions warrant the level of discipline.  The administration has the right to provide the proper consequence to the disciplinary infraction caused by the student.  The disciplinary consequences at school are fair and consistent; multiple consequences may be administered for an infraction that deserves a higher level of punishment.

If there is a serious problem, such as (but not limited to) swearing, fighting, cheating, forgery, direct disobedience, biting, bullying, racial disrespect, stealing, abusive language or disrespect for authority, the student will be sent to the office, and actions such as the following may be taken, at the sole discretion of the school:  Saturday School, out-of-school suspension, or dismissal from school.  If a student receives out-of-school suspension or dismissal from school, parents are expected to pick up these students within one hour.  Students may be suspended for additional days if the situation warrants. Strong Rock Christian School reserves the right to expel a student, who chooses to rebel against the values and direction of the school, as determined at the sole discretion of the school.

Students and parents are responsible for understanding the obligation to update information in a student’s college application pursuant to the college’s or university’s reporting guidelines.  Many colleges and universities require that students immediately report the following incidents which may have occurred after application and/or acceptance: (1) disciplinary matters for which a consequence has been given; (2) arrests, convictions, or other legal changes; and (3) circumstances under which a student was withdrawn from school to avoid the possibility of a disciplinary infraction.  The student and/or parent are responsible for complying with the college/university requirements and must also provide the school with a copy of the letter or other information disclosed.  It is important for the student and parent to realize that Strong Rock Christian School staff will also inform the college or university of such an incident. 

Because of the importance of partnership, harmony and open communication between the home and the school, parents/legal guardians are expected to bring concerns, problems, or areas of confusion or misunderstanding to the attention of Strong Rock Christian School personnel immediately and privately.   

• All questions, concerns, problems, or complaints should be brought directly to the teacher, coach, or director first before anyone else is involved. 
• If the situation is not cleared up at this level through direct contact with the teacher, coach, or director, it should then be brought to the principal. 

Strong Rock Christian School reserves the right to discipline or dismiss students who are involved on or off campus in an activity that reflects in a negative way on the school.  This includes, but is not limited to, the posting of any type of inappropriate material on the internet or social media that can bring discredit to the school.  Such internet or social media postings will not be tolerated and will be addressed immediately.

In the event that concerns are not addressed immediately and voluntarily by the student and/or parents, Strong Rock Christian School may dismiss the student.  

Strong Rock Christian School reserves the right to refuse admission or re-admission to a student, who has been expelled from Strong Rock Christian School or from any other school.

All parents/legal guardians of Pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students must be in partnership and harmony with the aims and purposes of Strong Rock Christian School.  The school may dismiss a well-behaved student if the parents/legal guardians of that student become excessively disruptive, slanderous, abusive, disorderly, uncooperative, or post anything on the internet or social media that brings discredit to Strong Rock Christian School. 

Students and parents are prohibited from using profane, obscene, bigoted, or other type of offensive language or gestures on campus or at school-sponsored events.

Strong Rock Christian School will not consider married students for admission.  Unmarried students with children and/or previous pregnancies will not be admitted. 

Public display of affection (i.e. holding hands, hugging, sitting on laps, etc.) or personal contact of any kind shall be considered in poor taste on campus and at all school-sponsored functions and is not permitted; disciplinary action will be taken in the event of public display of affection.

Other than the necessary school “tools” needed for classroom use, students should bring nothing to school or to school functions that will cause a distraction or a disturbance.  No toys are allowed unless the teacher requests that students bring an item for show-and-tell or for a special project.

Strong Rock reserves the right to search any person, personal article, locker, vehicle or other items brought onto Strong Rock’s property.  Refusal by a student to consent to a search will be grounds for expulsion.

Items that are prohibited at school or school functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Tobacco products
• Vaping products
• Juul products
• Guns
• Matches
• Cigarette lighters and other types of lighters
• Explosives
• Knives
• Weapons of any kinds (see the paragraph on weapons in the Family Handbook on page 83)
• Bullets
• Chains
• Drugs and other medication (unless the proper forms are on file with the school)
• Recording Devices
• Inappropriate literature
• Laser pens
• Pepper spray
• Occult-related items
• Any items of extreme value
• Live animals

Prohibited items confiscated by the staff at Strong Rock Christian School will not be returned to the student.  Parents/legal guardians must collect the item(s) personally.

The possession, use or distribution of illegal drugs, controlled substances or alcohol and/or misuse of over-the-counter drugs, is prohibited. Students connected to, in the presence of, or associated with any drug-related persons or events may be required to submit to drug testing and are subject to dismissal.  Strong Rock Christian School is considered a drug/alcohol-free zone and therefore practices a zero tolerance policy as it relates to the possession, use and/or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances on its campus and at school events. Minimum Suspension: Five (5) Days Out of School with possible expulsion.

This policy establishes Strong Rock Christian School’s (“Strong Rock”) position on the use or abuse of alcohol, drugs or other controlled substances by its students. It is a part of Strong Rock’s commitment to safeguard the health of its students, and to provide a safe place for its students to learn and grow. Because substance abuse, either while at school or away from school, can seriously endanger the health and safety of students and render it impossible to create a conducive environment for learning, Strong Rock has established this Drug-Free School Program to detect users and remove abusers of alcohol, drugs or other controlled substances.  Strong Rock is committed to preventing the use and/or presence of these substances in its school or on its property and to encouraging its students to say "no" to drugs and alcohol. 

The elements of this policy are as follows:

1. Anti-drug Policy.   Strong Rock prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, presence, or use of alcohol, drugs, or other controlled substances on school property or during any school sponsored activities. Students violating this prohibition will be referred to rehabilitation, and/or disciplined up to and including expulsion.
2. Notice.   Notice of this policy will be posted in appropriate and conspicuous locations on Strong Rock’s premises, and copies of the policy will be available for inspection by students or their parents during regular business hours in the administrative offices.  This policy will also be published in Strong Rock’s Family Handbook and will be included as part of the enrollment contract signed by parents/legal guardians.
3. Acknowledgment/Copy to Students.   All parents and students will acknowledge notice and consent of this substance abuse policy by signing the Student/Parent Acknowledgment Form.  Each student, upon his/her 18^th birthday, or the soonest school day thereafter, shall sign a Student Acknowledgement Form granting free consent for Strong Rock to notify his/her parents in the event of a failed drug and/or alcohol test.
4. Application of Policy.   This policy applies to all 9-12 grade students of Strong Rock Christian School. 
5. Policy Implementation Dates.   The Mandatory drug and alcohol testing provisions of this policy became effective beginning on the first day of classes for the 2015-2016 school year and each school year thereafter.  Parents or legal guardians of all students currently enrolled are required, as a condition of enrollment of their son or daughter at Strong Rock Christian School, to acknowledge and consent to Strong Rock’s Student Substance Abuse Policy, including the drug and alcohol testing procedures.
6. Mandatory Drug Testing.   Strong Rock will utilize drug and/or alcohol testing to help administer this policy beginning on the first day of classes for the 2015-2016 school year and each school year thereafter.  Strong Rock reserves the right to drug and/or alcohol test students at any time for any reason. Any refusal to take a drug and/or alcohol test will result in referral to rehabilitation and/or disciplinary action up to and including expulsion, depending on the circumstances.  All parents or legal guardians of students and students will be required to sign the Chemical Screening Consent and Release Form prior to any drug and/or alcohol test as a condition of enrollment at Strong Rock and as part of the enrollment contract with Strong Rock. Such consent is deemed valid for the entire school year.  Each student, upon his/her 18^th birthday, or the soonest school day thereafter, shall sign a Student Chemical Consent & Release (over the age of majority) Form granting free consent for Strong Rock to notify his/her parents/guardians in the event of a failed drug and/or alcohol test. In general, the following types of testing will be used:
   1. Random Testing.   All students in grades 9 through 12 will be subject to random testing throughout the school year.
   2. Reasonable Suspicion Testing.   Students will be tested when reasonable suspicion exists such that their behavior or performance indicates possible alcohol or other drug use, in violation of this policy.  Faculty or school administrators who need to utilize reasonable suspicion testing will fill out the Substance Abuse Investigation Form.  All requests for Reasonable Suspicion Testing must be approved by the Principal.  Articulable facts and reasonable inferences prompting reasonable suspicion drug and/or alcohol testing may include, but not be limited to:
      1. Observable phenomena while at school or away from school such as direct observation of substance abuse or the physical symptoms or manifestations of being impaired due to substance abuse;
      2. Abnormal conduct or erratic behavior while at school or a significant deterioration in school work performance;
      3. A report of substance abuse provided by a reliable and credible source;
      4. Evidence that an individual has tampered with any substance abuse test;
      5. Information that a student has caused or contributed to an accident while at school;
      6. Evidence that a student has used, possessed, sold, solicited, or transferred drugs while on or off school premises;
      7. Excessive absenteeism including tardiness;
      8. Student admissions regarding drug and/or alcohol use;
      9. Repeated failure to follow instructions or school policies and procedures;
      10. Violation of Strong Rock policies including, but not limited to fighting or physical altercations;
      11. Odor of alcohol and/or residual odor peculiar to some chemicals, alcohol, or other drugs;
      12. Arrest or conviction for violation of a criminal drug statute or an alcohol abuse statute; or
      13. Possession of drug paraphernalia.
   3. Post Accident Testing.   Students will be tested following serious accidents, which cause injuries requiring medical attention.  Students will not be tested under this provision following accidents which only cause minor injuries, requiring only minor first aid treatment.  Strong Rock faculty or administrators will use the Post Accident Investigation Form to document such testing.
   4. Post Rehabilitation Testing.   Students will be tested when returning from rehabilitation, which was the result of a positive test and the involuntary referral of the student to rehabilitation.  Follow-up testing shall be conducted at least three times a year for a two-year period after completion of the rehabilitation program and without advance notice to the student.
7. Cost of Drug Testing.   Strong Rock will pay the cost of all voluntary and mandatory drug and/or alcohol tests, initial and confirmation.  A student and/or his/her parents shall pay the cost of any additional tests not subject to Strong Rock’s voluntary or mandatory programs.
8. Positive Drug Test.
   1. Medical Review Officer (MRO)   All positive drug test results will be reviewed by the Medical Review Officer (MRO).  The MRO may contact the student and his/her parents in order to investigate the reasons behind a positive drug test.  Failure to cooperate with the MRO may result in immediate expulsion.  If the MRO is unable to contact the student and his/her parents, the MRO will communicate that fact to Strong Rock’s Principal.  Once the MRO has finalized the investigation he/she will communicate the results to Strong Rock’s Principal.
   2. Confirmation/Notification/Retesting   All positive drug tests will be confirmed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) or an equivalent method.  Within five (5) school days after receipt of a positive confirmed test result from the laboratory, a student and his/her parents will receive written notification of such positive confirmed test result (Notification Form), the consequences of such results, and the options available, whereupon the student and his/her parents will have five (5) school days to contest or explain the positive test result.  If the student's or parent's explanation or challenge is unsatisfactory to the MRO, the MRO shall report a positive test result back to the Principal.
   3. Students   If a student tests positive (confirmed drug test), his or her parents shall be notified, and he or she will be referred to evaluation, assessment and/or rehabilitation at his/her or his/her parent's own expense.  Students must enter and successfully complete an approved substance abuse rehabilitation program at their own expense to remain enrolled at Strong Rock.  Strong Rock will maintain a Resource File which contains information on rehabilitation resources in the administrative offices.  Refusal to agree to be referred to rehabilitation will result in immediate expulsion.  If a student tests positive a second time, he/she will be expelled from Strong Rock.
9. Drug Testing Procedures.   Strong Rock will utilize urinalysis and/or breathalyzers for its drug and/or alcohol testing procedures as appropriate, in conformity with the law.  All parents or legal guardians and their students, and/or students over the age of majority will be required to sign the Chemical Screening Consent and Release Form at the time the enrollment contract is signed for each school year, and such consent is deemed valid for the entire school year.
10. Drugs.   Strong Rock will determine the controlled substances (including alcohol) for which testing will be performed.
11. Drug & Alcohol Arrests/Convictions.   Any student who is involved with, arrested or convicted, including a plea of nolo contendre or other pleas with respect to any alcohol or drug incident must report the details of the incident(s) immediately and in no case later than five (5) days to the Principal.  Any such incidents that are not reported by the student or his or her parents or legal guardians will be treated as a serious violation of this policy and subject the student to possible expulsion.  If a student is arrested or convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI), the matter will be handled in accordance with the Family Handbook.
12. Resource File/Student Assistance.   Strong Rock will maintain a Resource File in the administrative offices containing information on substance abuse assistance programs and rehabilitation resources, where students and their parents may obtain information and/or counseling or treatment for rehabilitation from substance abuse, at the student's own expense.  Strong Rock will also post a listing of providers of substance abuse assistance on school bulletin boards.
13. Disciplinary Action.   Strong Rock reserves the right to use disciplinary action up to and including expulsion for any violation of this policy, any positive drug test, refusal to take a test, or any refusal by a student to cooperate with any aspect of this policy.
14. Confidentiality.   All information, test results, or other materials received by Strong Rock in the operation of this substance abuse program are confidential communications, which will only be utilized on a need-to-know basis.  These confidential communications and information will not be released unless required by law or with parental consent.
15. Designated Substance Abuse Program Official.   The Strong Rock High School Principal is the designated Substance Abuse Program Official.  All communications and the coordination of the program will be conducted through the Principal and/or his designee.
16. Searches.   Strong Rock reserves the right to search any person, personal article, locker, vehicle or other items brought onto Strong Rock’s property.  Refusal by a student to consent to a search will be grounds for expulsion.
17. Policy Changes.   Strong Rock reserves the right to change, alter, or amend this policy at any time at its discretion.
18. Definitions.   When used in this policy, the term:
    1. “Age of Majority” means the legally defined age at which a person is considered  an adult as defined by the state of Georgia.
    2. Alcohol" means ethyl alcohol, hydrated oxide of ethyl, or spirits of wine, from whatever source or by whatever process produced.
    3. "Drug" means amphetamines, cannabinoids, cocaine, phencyclidine (PCP), methadone, methaqualene, opiates, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, propoxphene, ecstasy or a metabolite of any such substances.  Strong Rock may test a student for any or all of these.
    4. "Student" means any person enrolled at Strong Rock Christian School.
    5. "Nonprescription medication" means a drug or medication authorized pursuant to federal or state law for general distribution and use without a prescription in the treatment of human disease, ailments, or injuries.
    6. "Prescription medication" means a drug or medication lawfully prescribed by a physician for an individual and taken in accordance with such prescription.
    7. "Reasonable suspicion testing" means substance abuse testing based on a belief that a student is using or has used drugs or alcohol in violation of this policy drawn from specific objective and articulable facts and reasonable inferences drawn from those facts in light of experience.
    8. "Substance" means drugs or alcohol.
    9. "Substance abuse test" or "test" means any chemical, biological, or physical instrumental analysis administered for the purpose of determining the presence or absence of a drug or its metabolites or of alcohol.

Philosophy:

Strong Rock Christian School is committed to fostering a drug free environment for students. Due to the prevalence of drugs in society, Strong Rock partners with parents to educate students about the negative consequences of drug use, and to offer students tools to say no to the use of these harmful chemicals. Strong Rock is guided by research which shows that the longer a person delays experimentation with drugs, the less likely he/she is to develop an addiction to them. In this spirit, then, along with education of parents and students, Strong Rock uses mandatory, but random, drug testing of all academy/high school students. While no school has the ability to monitor the behavior of all of its students at all times, Strong Rock has adopted this policy of drug testing in hopes of providing a meaningful drug prevention effort that encourages all its students to make positive, healthy choices.

Drug Avoidance Education:

1. As a condition of enrollment and continued attendance at Strong Rock, all high school students and their parents must agree to participate in the formal drug and alcohol awareness programs offered by the school.
2. Academy programs will include:
   For Students: A drug and alcohol awareness program, integrated into the science curriculum, will be taught in seventh grade. Students will be instructed on the dangers of drug and alcohol use. 
3. High School programs will include:
   For Students: Strong Rock has long offered opportunities for high school students to learn the dangers of drug and alcohol use through the Alcohol Drug Awareness Program (ADAP).

Drug Testing Protocol:

1. As a condition of enrollment and continued attendance at Strong Rock, all high school students and parents/legal guardians must agree (i) to comply with the drug testing rules and procedures in effect at Strong Rock Christian School, and (ii) to sign related consent and authorization forms.
2. Strong Rock reserves the right to amend, or deviate from, the specific testing protocols set forth herein at any time when, in the judgment of the administration, doing so will further the important objective of creating a drug-free community of students at Strong Rock Christian School. Strong Rock Christian School, in consultation with its outside consultants, will determine the controlled substances for which testing will be performed.
3. Drug testing will be supervised and conducted by an outside firm, Spec Group, Inc., with demonstrated expertise in the field, and will be used to determine illegal drug use. All results of tests conducted by the firm will be (i) treated confidentially by Strong Rock, and (ii) disclosed only to the student, his/her parents/guardians, and those Strong Rock personnel with a “need to know” (such as the principal, assistant principal, school nurse, and grade-level counselor).
4. Before any drug test is administered, each student to be tested will be asked privately if the test results are likely to be positive because he or she has engaged in any illegal use of drugs. The student shall answer the question truthfully.
5. High school students will be subject to random drug testing during the academic year:
   1. Every student in grades 9 through 12 is subject to testing.
   2. Random tests will occur during a school day and will be scheduled with the intent of causing minimum interference with class time. The specific dates and times for the drug tests will be selected by Strong Rock in coordination with its outside consultants and will not be announced in advance.
   3. The outside consulting firm, Spec Group Inc., will employ a “blind selection” methodology to select a pool of academy/high school students to be tested on a given test date.
   4. While Strong Rock reserves the right to use other methods of testing, urinalysis will be the primary method used for the testing conducted under this policy. Appropriate steps will be taken to ensure privacy to students (i.e., students will be alone in a private bathroom) while they are providing urine samples.
6. The logistics and protocols for drug testing will be determined by the administration in conjunction with Spec Group, Inc. to conduct the collections and provide oversight with laboratory tests, with the goal of ensuring accuracy, security, and confidentiality of all test results. Spec Group, Inc. will exercise due care to ensure that samples are collected, transported, and analyzed in a professional and reliable manner.
7. Notification procedures:
   1. Strong Rock will play no role in the analysis or interpretation of test results. That function will be conducted exclusively by the testing laboratory and a Medical Review Officer under the oversight of Spec Group, Inc.
   2. An independent Medical Review Officer (MRO) selected to work with Spec Group, Inc. will make an initial determination of the results.
   3. “Negative” results are those that show no evidence that the student has used drugs illegally. Notice of a negative test result will be communicated to the parents/guardians via email.
   4. If the MRO determines that the test produced a non-negative result, the MRO will contact the parents/guardians of the student directly to give notice and an opportunity for discussion. In some circumstances, there can be a valid explanation for a non-negative result (for example, taking prescribed doses of certain medications might lead to such a result). During his or her communications with the student’s parents, the MRO will (i) ask any pertinent questions about medications taken by the student, and (ii) give the family an opportunity to provide evidence of prescribed medications and dosages and any other medically relevant information. After this communication with the family, the MRO will make a final determination of whether the student has tested “Positive” for illegal drug use.
   5. The MRO will communicate a positive test result to the parents/guardians. If requested, Spec Group, Inc. will provide information about the possibility of a re-test or “appeal” (which will involve a second analysis of the same sample). Any retests will be performed at the family’s expense. Once confirmation of a sample is given, an appeal must be requested within five business days of notification from the school.
   6. Once the MRO has made a final determination that a student has tested positive for illegal drug use, the MRO will contact the High School Principal to give notice of this final test result.
   7. Upon receipt of a positive test result, the High School Principal will contact the student’s parents/guardians and schedule a conference to discuss a plan of care. The meeting must be attended by the (i) parents/guardians, (ii) the student, (iii) the high school principal and/or assistant principal. Issues to be discussed include an explanation of the test results, Strong Rock’s policy regarding positive tests, a review of the student’s academic performance, and other issues of concern to the family and/or the school.
   8. Counselors will retain a list of current outside resources, including mental health and substance abuse professionals, which will be made available to the student’s family.
8. All high school students will be subject to drug testing on the basis of reasonable suspicion.
   1. For purposes of this policy, “reasonable suspicion” exists when a Strong Rock administrator who has received training on drug and alcohol use determines that there is an objective basis to believe that a student has been using drugs illegally.
   2. When reasonable suspicion exists, Strong Rock will notify the student of his or her need to participate in drug testing under the applicable policies and procedures set forth above.
9. Consequences for refusing to participate in drug testing:
   Any refusal to provide a sample upon request will be treated as an admission of drug use by the student. A first refusal will be treated as a POSITIVE - FIRST OFFENSE – DENIAL OF DRUG USE AT TIME OF TEST. A second refusal will be treated as a POSITIVE – SECOND OFFENSE.
    
10. Consequences for Positive Test Results:
    1. POSITIVE – FIRST OFFENSE – ADMISSION OF DRUG USE AT TIME OF TEST
       1. The student must have a medical release from a physician, in a form provided by Strong Rock, before returning to school.
       2. The student must have a substance abuse assessment by a qualified professional at the parents’/guardians’ expense. A letter verifying the assessment, including recommendations for the student, must be received by the High School Principal within 30 days.
       3. The student must successfully complete the counseling/ rehabilitation recommendations made by the qualified substance abuse professional.
       4. The student will be randomly tested, at his or her parents’/guardians’ expense, every semester throughout the remainder of his/her career at Strong Rock. These random tests will occur a minimum of three times per school year, or as designated by Strong Rock in consultation with Spec Group, Inc.
    2. POSITIVE – FIRST OFFENSE – DENIAL OF DRUG USE AT TIME OF TEST
       1. The student must have a medical release from a physician, in a form provided by Strong Rock, before returning to school.
       2. The student must have a substance abuse assessment by a qualified professional at the parents’/guardians’ expense. A letter verifying the assessment, including recommendations for the student, must be received by the administration within 30 days.
       3. The student must successfully complete the counseling/rehabilitation recommendations made by the qualified substance abuse professional.
       4. The student will be randomly tested, at his or her parents’/guardians’ expense, every semester throughout the remainder of his/her career at Strong Rock. These random tests will occur a minimum of three times per school year, or as designated by Strong Rock in consultation with Spec Group, Inc.
       5. The student will receive 15 additional hours of community service.
    3. POSITIVE – SECOND OFFENSE
       1.  If a student tests positive a second time during his or her enrollment at Strong Rock, the student and his or her parents/guardians will be given an opportunity to withdraw the student from Strong Rock immediately.
       2. If the student is not withdrawn voluntarily, he or she shall be dismissed from Strong Rock.
11. This Student Substance Abuse Testing Policy is intended to discourage drug use by students at all times – not only when they are on Strong Rock’s campus. Strong Rock has separate disciplinary rules that prohibit students from possessing drugs while they are on campus or at official school functions or trips. Nothing in this Student Substance Abuse Testing Policy has the effect of amending or nullifying those important disciplinary rules. Accordingly, any students found to possess drugs on Strong Rock’s campus or at any official Strong Rock functions or trips will be referred to the administration.

Consent & Release Form

Acknowledgment Form

Effective 2010, Georgia law makes it unlawful for any person to carry to or to possess or have under such person's control while within a school safety zone, at a school function, or on a bus or other transportation furnished by a school any weapon or explosive compound.  Any license holder who violates this subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Any person who is not a license holder who violates this subsection shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, be punished by a fine of not more than $10,000.00, by imprisonment for not less than two nor more than ten years, or both.  

According to Georgia law, "weapon" means and includes any pistol, revolver, or any weapon designed or intended to propel a missile of any kind, or any dirk, bowie knife, switchblade knife, ballistic knife, any other knife having a blade of two or more inches, straight-edge razor, razor blade, spring stick, knuckles, whether made from metal, thermoplastic, wood, or other similar material, blackjack, any bat, club, or other bludgeon-type weapon, or any flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a manner as to allow them to swing freely, which may be known as a nun chahka, nun chuck, nunchaku, shuriken, or fighting chain, or any disc, of whatever configuration, having at least two points or pointed blades which is designed to be thrown or propelled and which may be known as a throwing star or oriental dart, or any weapon of like kind, and any stun gun or taser as defined in subsection (a) of Code Section 16-11-106. This paragraph excludes any of these instruments used for classroom work authorized by the teacher.

Bringing these items to school may result in suspension with the possibility of being expelled from school.

Students understand and agree that SRCS shall have the right to monitor or examine any electronic device at the school or any SRCS activity. Additionally, SRCS may monitor or examine any postings on the Internet or other electronic medium, which includes but is not limited to, text messages and postings on personal websites, social networking sites, for example FaceBook, Snap Chat, Instagram, or other private or public domains. Such monitoring includes, but is not limited to, all verbiage, pictures, depictions, graphics and videos. 

Students understand and agree that they are responsible for and may be subject to disciplinary action for inappropriate material sent, posted, made available, shown to others or possessed by the student themselves.

The parents authorize the school to inspect and conduct a search of any place or item on school campus or at a school-related event including, but not limited to, a student’s vehicle, locker, cubby, book bag, backpack, computer, personal electronic devices, outer clothing, or belongings.  Inspections and searches may be conducted on a routine or random basis or as deemed necessary.  Students must provide any passwords or other access required to inspect such places or items upon request by a school administrator. Inspection of electronic devices includes laptops, phones, cameras, and any other electronics, including the contents of same (texts, emails, photos, images, address books, etc. whether such message or information was sent over the school’s system or any personal account such as Yahoo, AOL, Gmail, etc.).  Further, the parents authorize the school to seize and permanently retain property disclosed by an inspection or search which is considered potentially harmful, dangerous, illegal, or inappropriate, or the possession of which is a violation of the school’s rules, community standards, and/or local, state, or federal law.

Throughout the school year, the administration along with the School Resource Officer (SRO) may bring on the SRCS campus a Police K-9 for the detection of drugs. The main purpose of the searches is to deter drugs on campus. 

The administration and/or SRO will determine the priority search area. During the search the SRO and/or school administrator will be present. If the K-9 alerts on a car, locker, book bag, or any other object, the owner will be identified.

The searches are generally held, but not limited to, the high school parking lot and lockers. No dog will search a student. These are random, unannounced searches throughout the school year. If the K-9 alerts to a student’s locker or vehicle, the parents/guardians will be contacted by an administrator. 

Prior to searching the vehicle, a parent or guardian will be notified of the alert and intention of the school administration to search the vehicle. Once the driver of the vehicle is identified, the administrator will search the vehicle.

Keep in mind a school administrator does not need probable cause to conduct an administrative search, only reasonable suspicion. A K-9 alert does constitute probable cause for a search for either law enforcement or school administration purposes. In the event of an administrative search, no law enforcement personnel should be present during that search.  If a suspected illegal substance is found, law enforcement personnel will be notified.

The attitudes and cooperation of the subject(s) will be considered in the final disposition of the case. Strong Rock understands that all who are involved in an individual case may or may not have the same level of fault.

By being enrolled as a student, the parents and student agree to give full cooperation in any investigation.

The school is dedicated to fostering an environment that promotes kindness, acceptance, and embraces differences among individuals.  Therefore, the school will not tolerate any type of harassment or bullying. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, slurs, jokes, comments, teasing, and other offensive conduct relating to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, citizenship, or disability.  Harassment also includes unwanted, offensive sexual conduct.  Bullying includes, but is not limited to, physical or verbal aggression (hitting, kicking, taunting, teasing, threatening, ridiculing, etc.), relational aggression (harming or threatening to harm relationships or acceptance, friendship, or group inclusion), emotional aggression (teasing, threatening, intimidating others).  

Bullying or harassment can occur through any type of communications method, including face-to-face communications, phone, text, email, postings on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat GroupMe, etc.), camera phones, or other forms of technology.  The communications can be direct or indirect, such as through friends or others. Any type of offensive conduct, whether on or off campus, on a school bus or other school vehicle or mode of transportation, or at a school-related event, can create an uncomfortable school environment.  

All concerns relating to harassment or bullying should be reported immediately to a Strong Rock Christian School faculty or staff member.  It is expected that anyone, whether student, faculty, staff or family member who witnesses, or has knowledge of an incident of bullying or harassment, will report the incident to administration immediately.  When the school administration becomes aware of harassment or bullying, the situation will be promptly investigated.  Any student found to have violated this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, including dismissal from school for serious violations.  No adverse action will be taken against any person who makes a good faith report of harassment or bullying.  Retaliation in any form against anyone for making a complaint under this policy or for participating in an investigation is strictly prohibited.  Any retaliation should also be reported pursuant to this policy and is itself a cause for disciplinary action.
 

Students are expected to maintain moral purity as is outlined in God’s Word. Unacceptable sexual behavior includes but is not limited to inappropriate contact and any issue associated with pornography, whether on or off campus. Discipline consequences may include dismissal/expulsion from school.

Reference: Colossians 3:5, I Corinthians 6:18, Matthew 5:27-28, Mark 7:20-23, Romans 1:26-27

Strong Rock Christian School considers the safety and well-being of all students and staff to be of the utmost importance.  Each student is expected to adopt an attitude of respect for each of his/her classmates and teachers.  Actions or statements of a threatening nature toward any person on campus will not be tolerated.  Students who engage in such behavior (even in a manner they themselves perceive as “joking”) will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including permanent dismissal from school.

Gum is not allowed for Pre-Kindergarten through 7^th grades.  A student caught chewing gum by the teacher will be administered an immediate consequence.  Students in 8^th through 12^th grades are allowed to chew gum at the teachers’ discretion, but this privilege can be taken away at any time during the school year if abused.

DRESS CODE GUIDELINES

Boys in grades 9-12 should be clean-shaven, with sideburns not to extend below the earlobe.  Boys in violation will be required to shave at school and dispose of the razor in the administrative office.  After the first violation boys will be charged $1 for the use of a razor and shaving cream.  Extreme hair styles, including, but not limited to those with unnatural hair color, are not permitted. Students may be asked to have a haircut before returning to school.

Makeup is to be used with discretion and taste and is not to be used to draw undue attention.

Jewelry must be worn in good taste and is expected to match the school uniform.  Personal jewelry should not draw undue attention to oneself.  No earrings of any description are permitted for boys.  Piercing of any body part other than the ears is likewise prohibited.  Any apparel, hairstyle, or accessories that bring undue attention to a student will not be permitted.  

A male student’s hair must not fall below the ear, touch the collar, or cover the eyes.  No designs are permitted.  No pony tails or man buns are allowed.  All hairstyles (i.e. cornrows, braids, twists, etc.) should be well groomed and maintained at the discretion of the administration. 

Day of infraction: Identifying teacher will send the student’s name to the academy/high school assistant principal.  The academy/high school assistant principal will inform the parent that the student must have his/her haircut within 2 days of the infraction.

The following email will be sent by the assistant principal to inform academy/high school parents that their child is not in compliance with Strong Rock Christian School’s hair policy and will receive the listed consequences if not corrected in the time specified.  

Good morning,

This morning, your student __________________, has been identified as having a haircut that does not comply with the dress code standards set forth in our family handbook. We are sending you this notice so that you will be aware of our guidelines. He/she will have to have an appropriate haircut within 2 days of the infraction; otherwise, the following discipline guidelines will apply:

Day 3: If the student’s hair is not cut to meet school guidelines, the student will have isolated lunch. 

Day 4: If the student’s hair is not cut to meet school guidelines, the student will be assigned official school detention for the following Tuesday afternoon.

Day 5: If the student’s hair is not cut to meet school guidelines, the student will be confined to ISS for the remainder of the time he fails to meet guidelines.

Any student who has a tattoo is required to have it covered at all times during school hours and co-curricular events.  Violation of this policy will result in the same consequences as those for uniform violations.  If a student is at an extracurricular event and violates the policy, the student will be asked to leave or will not be allowed to participate in the event.   

The following steps will be used for uniform violations:

1. The classroom teacher will talk to the student in dress code violation.
2. The classroom teacher will write a note in the folder/agenda of the student in dress code violation.
3. The classroom teacher will send a formal note to the parents of the student in dress code violation.
4. The administration will contact the parents of the student in dress code violation to bring the appropriate uniform items.  

Teachers will send the names of students in violation of the dress code throughout the school day to the academy/high school assistant principal.  The administration will hold students accountable for adhering to dress code and administer discipline consequences.  Administration will discipline based on the following steps:

1. Warning
2. Additional warning
3. Lunch detention in Academy/High School office
4. Administration detention on Tuesday after school from 3:15 – 4:00
5. Parent/Student/Administration conference
6. ISS (In School Suspension) Academy/High School office
7. Saturday School (Cost will be 25.00 dollars and the student must come dressed in school uniform)
8. 1-Day of OSS (Out of School Suspension)
9. 2-Days of OSS
10. Additional day of OSS for each violation

If a student is deemed by administration to be completely out of dress code (Not in Chapel Wear, Jeans Day violation or missing multiple uniform items, they will remain in the office until appropriate uniform item(s) can be brought to them). 

**Any violation that is deemed unacceptable or extreme by SRCS administration will result in the student being placed automatically in ISS, even if it is the first offense.

Select items will be available for purchase at the school store.

All academy & high school students are allowed to wear a Strong Rock shirt with uniform bottoms and any closed-toe shoes every Friday.  Crocs and open-toed shoes are not allowed.  The shirts must display the school logo (Patriots, Strong Rock Christian School, or logo) and must follow the uniform guidelines (no tank tops, sleeveless shirts, etc.) unless approved by the administration.

Jeans Day Requirements – Solid Jean color (white, tan, black, grey, blue)

• Must be school appropriate length and have no holes, rips or tears.
• Capri Pants optional for girls
• Any closed toe shoes
• No shorts unless they are uniform
• Capri Blue Jeans are allowed

Shirts with Jeans Day

• All shirts must have school logo
• A Strong Rock t-shirt, Strong Rock sweatshirt or Strong Rock hoodie
• Special event t-shirts must be approved by administration ahead of time before wearing

• Polos may be worn on Friday only            
• Sweaters, Hoodies, Pullovers, ¼ zips and jackets with school logo may be worn everyday but Tuesday.

The following items may be worn for PE (grades 5-12):

• Appropriate length athletic shorts (navy, red, white, gray, or black) and Strong Rock T-shirts 
• Player pack t-shirts and shorts

Strong Rock Christian School is committed to providing a diversified, participatory, and successful athletic program that is available to all students. Our school believes that such a program is a vital and integral part of the total school environment as well as playing a key role in the overall development of each student who is involved in the athletic program. It is the belief of Strong Rock Christian School that the athletic program at Strong Rock Christian School should assist students in developing positive self-esteem and the qualities of good citizenship, as well as impacting the world for Jesus Christ.

Strong Rock offers a wide variety of sports for boys and girls during each season of the school year, and coaches are committed to promoting sportsmanship and team play at all levels. For most sports, students may begin competing for the school in the 6th grade; athletes will continue to compete at the junior varsity and varsity level during high school.

Strong Rock Christian School is a member of the Georgia Independent Athletic Association (GIAA) and competes in Region 5. For more information, please visit giaasports.org. Additionally, some athletic teams compete in GAPPS events.

As a general rule, the following sports will be offered. Specific information can be obtained from the Athletic Director.

Girls’ Sports

Fall: Softball (6-12); Volleyball (3-12); Cross Country (6-12); Cheerleading (3-12); Clay Target (6-12)

Winter: Basketball (3-12); Cheerleading (6-12); Swimming (6-12); E Sports (9-12)

Spring: Soccer (3-12); Track (6-12); Tennis (6-12); Golf (6-12); Lacrosse (3-5)

Boys’ Sports

Fall: Football (4-12); Cross Country (6-12); Clay Target (6-12)

Winter: Basketball (3-12); Wrestling (K-12); Swimming (6-12); E Sports (9-12)

Spring: Baseball (6-12); (Soccer (3-12); Track (6-12); Tennis (6-12); Golf (6-12); Lacrosse (3-5, 8-12); Bass Fishing (6-12)

Boys’ and Girls’ Sports

Fall: Running Club (K-5)

Spring: Running Club (K-5)

All Students must have an updated physical on file to try out, practice, and compete on one of our teams.  The form can be found on our Athletic page on the school website.  Each student has an opportunity annually to get a physical onsite that will be good for all summer activities and throughout the school year.

Strong Rock Christian School and the Georgia Independent Athletic Association (GIAA) control eligibility for participation in athletics.  All high school students must be in good academic and social standing at Strong Rock Christian School to remain eligible.  The minimum academic requirements and general guidelines are as follows:

1. According to the GIAA standards, students must pass 5 classes per semester to remain eligible.  At Strong Rock Christian School, any student-athlete who fails two or more classes in a 9-week grading period or has less than a 2.0 GPA will be on academic probation for the next 9-week grading period.  If after the 9-week probation the GPA remains below a 2.0 or there are more than 2 failing classes the student athlete will be suspended from all extra-curricular activities as determined by the principal.  
2. If an academy student athlete does not pass 5 classes in any one semester, his/her eligibility will be reviewed by the Principal and athletic director to determine if the student athlete can participate in athletics during the subsequent semester. 
3. Upon entering the 9^th grade, students have eight (8) consecutive semesters in which to complete their eligibility.
4. All student-athletes must have a completed physical form signed by a doctor approving their participation prior to the start of practice each year.  

At the elementary level, the following activities are typically offered:

• Chorus (3-5)
• Art Quest
• Lego Robotics
• Piano lessons
• Voice Lessons
• Guitar Lessons
• Other co-curricular activities may be offered

At the academy level, the following activities are typically offered:

• Junior Beta Club
• Piano Lessons
• Drum Lessons
• Dance
• Voice Lessons
• Flute Lessons
• Low Brass Lessons 
• Guitar Lessons
• Strings
• Foreign Language & Missions Club
• Student Government Association
• “Y” Club
• Girl Talk
• Marching Band / Color Guard / Majorettes

At the high school level, the following activities are typically offered:

• Piano Lessons
• Drum Lessons
• Voice Lessons
• Flute Lessons
• Guitar Lessons
• Low Brass Lessons
• Beta Club
• NASA Astronaut Challenge
• National Honor Society
• Student Leadership Institute
• Drama Club
• Missions Opportunities
• Foreign Language & Missions Club
• Student Government Association
• Girl Talk (leadership for high school girls)
• “Y” Club
• Debate Team
• Chick-fil-A Leadership Academy
• Strong Rock Singers
• Marching Band / Color Guard / Majorettes 

Although Strong Rock encourages students to participate in school-related athletics, clubs, associations, organizations and other groups, the school prohibits all forms of hazing.  Hazing refers to any activity expected of a student to join or to continue membership or participation in any group where the activity produces or could be expected to produce mental, emotional or physical discomfort, humiliation, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule to the student, regardless of the student's willingness to participate. Hazing activities include, but are not limited to, acts of personal servitude (i.e., forced labor or service), sleep deprivation, restrictions on personal hygiene, yelling, swearing, insulting or demeaning verbal abuse, being forced to wear embarrassing or humiliating attire, consumption of vile or other non-food substances, consumption of alcohol, smearing of skin with vile substances, brandings, writing or marking on one’s skin or clothes, physical beatings, paddling or other physical abuse, performing sexual simulation or sexual acts, stunts or dares that could result in physical injury or harm to a person’s mental, emotional or social well-being, any act in violation of the law or school policy, and any other activity that could fall within the definition of hazing.  If someone thinks a particular activity could possibly be hazing, then it probably is.  If unsure, then contact an administrator and ask. 

A student violates this policy whenever he or she engages, assists, or attempts to engage or assist in the planning or committing of any hazing activity, whether on or off school property. Each student is also responsible for immediately reporting any hazing activity or plans for any hazing activity to an administrator. The failure to make such a report is also a violation of this policy.

When the school administration becomes aware of any actual or planned hazing activity, the situation will be promptly investigated. Any student found to have violated this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, including dismissal from the school for serious violations. No adverse action will be taken against any person who makes a good faith report of hazing activity.

Strong Rock Christian School offers multiple high school courses that can be taken for course credit during the zero hour. These classes may not be calculated towards a student’s GPA. These classes may not be audited.